Honda
Honda’s 100 mph 110cc PGM-FI prototype
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August 8, 2008 Fuel injection arrived on two wheels with the release of Honda’s CX500 Turbo a quarter of a century ago, and Honda has been developing smarter and more intricate computer controlled fuel injection systems for its two wheelers ever since. These days its advanced PGM-FI (Programmed Fuel Injection) technology is fitted across the range from 50cc scooters through its MotoGP race machinery, offering broader and smoother power, better throttle response and vastly reduced fuel consumption and emissions. A prototype being quietly shown around Asia suggests that it might also lead to some lightning fast scooters in the near future.
Honda's outrageous DN-01 to launch August 1
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From its sports-scooter meets future-cruiser styling to its dual-mode auto/sports-shift infinitely variable transmission, the 680cc DN-01 destroys Honda's conservative, staid reputation in a flurry of raised eyebrows and shaking heads. It couldn't possibly be a Honda - yet it is, and it's going on sale in the UK from August 1 to see if the market's ready for a truly progressive, niche-busting two-wheeler.
Honda improves railcar fleet
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Honda has taken steps to minimizing the environmental impact of its cars before they hit the road with the introduction of its fleet of Auto-Max railcars.
Honda announces 'brake by wire' supersport motorcycle
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June 11, 2008 Motorcycle 'driver aid' technology is becoming more and more prevalent; the 2008 Kawasaki ZX-10R, for example, features a primitive traction/stability control system, and the latest Yamaha R1 and R6 engines feature 'fly by wire' throttles, in which an ECU interprets and moderates throttle inputs before they reach the engine. Anti-lock braking is beginning to feature on almost all touring-style motorcycles, and Honda's Combined Braking system, or CBS, is fitted to several of the company's less sports-focused models, where it distributes braking force between front and rear wheels even if only one brake lever is pressed. Honda's latest advancement in rider aid technology is to combine ABS and CBS into one electronically-managed system that prevents braking lock-ups and also manages weight transfer under heavy braking to help stop the rear wheel from lifting in an emergency stop.
Bold new Chinese Racing bid unveiled
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Could history be about to repeat itself? In 1959, a small Japanese team entered the famous Isle of Man TT races on a new make of motorcycle: Honda. The establishment greeted the newcomers with polite amusement. They did not laugh for long. Now a Chinese motorcycle maker has announced it will follow an identical path starting in 2009 – exactly a half century later, there’s an eerie similarity.
Honda's experimental walking assist device
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May 19, 2008 The future of wearable exoskeleton devices is not limited to military (or superhero) applications as this experimental walking device from Honda demonstrates. Shown last month at BARRIER FREE 2008 in Japan, the partial exoskeleton uses hip angle sensors and two flat brushless DC motors controlled by an on-board CPU to supplement natural walking movement.
Radar car collision prevention systems put to the test
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February 15, 2008 British Motor Insurance Repair Research Centre Thatcham has put three of the car industry’s most hyped collision prevention technologies to the test – and they’ve emerged with flying colors. The Volvo City Safety, Mercedes Distronic Plus, and Honda CMBS use radar systems to mitigate and prevent low speed collisions – which, as a category, make up 75% of all motor accidents.
The 400 horsepower PWC cometh
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UPDATED IMAGE LIBRARY - The Personal Watercraft (PWC) market is in the grip of a horsepower “arms race” with a rash of new machinery announcements including a 342 bhp 2.2 litre V6-engined PWC from Austrian company HSR-Benelli and a 308 bhp 2.2 litre V8-engined PWC from the famous Italian MV Agusta motorcycle company. It all appears to have been catalyzed late last year when Kawasaki announced its 250 bhp Ultra 250X into a market where Seadoo’s 215 bhp RXP was previously the fastest of the bunch. Subsequently, SeaDoo has announced 255 bhp RXP-X and RXT-X models, Honda has announced a turbocharged 1500cc Aquatrax and Yamaha has announced a new lightweight purpose-built, turbocharged and intercooled 1812cc Super High Output (SHO) motor in its 2008 range. Given the radical upsurge in power outputs, one wonders what might be available a year or two from now. Read on …
Honda's ASIMO: am I seeing double?
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December 14, 2007 Honda has announced a further update to its advanced humanoid robot platform. The latest incarnation of ASIMO has added intelligence technology allowing it to autonomously perform services such as carrying a tray or pushing a cart, work together with fellow robots to share and complete tasks through a constant sharing of information, and even predict the movements of oncoming people and decide for itself how best to stay out of the way.
Honda set to release hydrogen fuel cell car – and home fuelling station
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It seems Honda is gearing up to be the one of the first major companies to bring a hydrogen fuel cell car to market – their FCX Clarity is set to go to production in 2008, in a move they’re hoping will break the catch-22 dilemma stopping motor companies from producing cars because there’s no hydrogen distribution, and stopping fuel companies from distributing hydrogen because there’s no cars that use it. To nurse consumers through the infancy of the hydrogen economy, Honda’s also attempting to decentralize the production of hydrogen through their Home Energy Station unit, which sits outside your house and reforms natural gas to produce enough Hydrogen to power both the car and the home’s energy needs at around 50% of the normal cost and with a 30% emissions reduction.
Honda announce Internet TV channel
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November 22, 2007 Honda UK has announced the launch of a new Internet TV portal that will deliver on-demand viewing of the company's films, video clips and adverts including a closer look at Honda's cars, driving tips and racing coverage.
2008 Honda CB1000R
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November 7, 2007 Pictures have emerged of the 2008 CB1000R – Honda’s new sporty performance naked bike that sees a 1000cc Fireblade engine re-tuned for mid-range performance and dropped into a naked frame. Specs include fully-adjustable forks and radial front brakes taken from the Fireblade, all-new single backbone frame, single sided swingarm, a superb looking 4-swept-spoke ninja-star rear wheel, an all-digital dash and and H.I.S.S. security system. No horsepower figures as yet but expectations are for around 120hp from the re-tuned 1000cc engine.
Hot Wheels Designer’s Challenge: leading automotive manufacturers come out to play
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October 31, 2007 Major automotive manufacturers recently showcased their visions for the automobile of the future as part of the LA Auto Show Design Challenge, but now comes a competition of a very different kind. Clean fuel and artificial intelligence take a back seat as speed, power, performance and attitude become the key criteria in Mattel’s 40th anniversary Designer’s Challenge™ in which leading manufacturers were invited to create an original vehicle for the company’s die-cast Hot Wheels® toy range… but there is one special requirement: each vehicle must be able to perform a loop on classic Hot Wheels® orange track.
Major companies reveal their visions for the cars of 2057
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As part of the LA Auto Show Design Challenge, several major manufacturers have submitted blue-sky design concepts showing where they feel automotive design will go in the next 50 years. From Nissan's friendly family assistant to Mercedes’ liquid-metal convertible and Toyota's pollution-chewing roller/strider, the submissions are an exciting and thought-provoking look at where the next half a century will take us in personal and family mobility.
Asimo's world tour continues
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October 8, 2007 ASIMO is quite possibly the world’s busiest non-human celebrity with recent appearances in Estonia, the Isle of Man, Barcelona and even Disneyland in the US as part of a stage show. His world tour continues with a trip now planned to the land downunder, Australia.
Aprilia’s upcoming V4 engine to deliver up to 220hp
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October 8, 2007 Aprilia tell us their much-anticipated V4 engine is currently undergoing durability testing in four states of tune – from a huge 185 horsepower up to an eye-watering 220 horsepower. Which one will we see in the road-going superbike they’re building?
2008 Honda Fireblade gets a full makeover
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October 3, 2007 Details have finally been officially released of the Honda Fireblade’s end-to-end 2008 overhaul... and here they are: wet weight drops 6kg to 199kg, power climbs 7hp to just under 180hp. The ‘Blade finally gets a next-gen slipper clutch, as well as a remodelled HESD steering damper. It’s also had a complete style overhaul – not to mention a stubby underslung exhaust. In fact, just about everything except the already-superb suspension has been completely redesigned. Honda’s clearly seeing this model as a big jump forward for the “friendly” superbike, a makeover they’re hoping will be as stunning as the one the GSX-R got in 2005.
Honda unveils six cylinder sports motorcycle prototype
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September 27, 2007 Honda will unveil a series of show motorcycles at this year’s Tokyo Motorcycle Show, headed by a radical six cylinder prototype to be known as the EVO6, which will be based on Honda’s six cylinder Gold Wing engine, but in a form far from its long-distance tourer guise. Seemingly aimed squarely at the Suzuki B-King muscle machine which was unveiled at this show four years ago, the 1832cc engine is much lighter and sportier than its touring brethren and is housed in an ultra-modern lightweight frame and is clearly designed for very rapid acceleration.
HondaJet interior design concept unveiled
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September 27, 2007 Honda Aircraft Company has released further details of the interior design concept for its forthcoming HondaJet. Expected to set a new standard for interior space and comfort, the focus will be on human fit, ergonomic efficiency and safety for the customer. Billed as the fastest and most fuel-efficient aircraft in its class, first deliveries of the US$3.65 million aircraft are expected in 2010.
Hydrogen based power offers green alternative for homes
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September 7, 2007 In a development that marks another step towards the vision of a sustainable, clean future for home power generation, UK company ITM Power has announced the upcoming release of a device which can generate hydrogen in the home to fuel central heating boilers and cookers while drastically cutting CO2 emissions. Set to go into production next year, the ITM electrolyser is designed to utilize off-peak or renewable electricity sources to create its own hydrogen fuel which can then be stored and used as a conventional gas to burn in central heating boilers as well as a fuel for cooking.
Honda's new generation ASIMO robot goes to Disneyland
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August 30, 2007 A new version of Honda’s popular humanoid robot, ASIMO, is now appearing in its very own stage show at Disneyland in California. Twenty years in the making, the first generation ASIMO has undergone numerous improvements and has even appeared as a spokesperson for Honda , featuring in a series of television advertisements in the UK.
High-spec Honda Civic EX Hybrid includes satellite navigation
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August 23, 2007 Honda (UK) have launched a high-spec, voice controlled Sat Nav-equipped version of its Civic Hybrid - the first time a Hybrid has featured factory-fitted Sat Nav as standard equipment.
Honda shows Small Hybrid Sports Concept Car
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March 9, 2007 Honda has unveiled a new hybrid sports concept car with a potent blend of sports performance and low emissions at the Geneva Motor Show. The Small Hybrid Sports Concept is a compact sports car that features advanced hybrid technology – proving stylish design and driving enjoyment can be combined with low environmental impact. It was designed by Honda R&D Europe, based in Offenbach, Germany.
Honda’s Next Generation EU6500 Portable Generator
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March 9, 2007 If most of your life turns to mud without electricity, and you don’t have a Plan B in case the electricity runs out, consider Honda’s new EU6500is portable generator. The EU6500is is the latest evolution of the EU generator model series and benefits from development in the areas of output, noise, size and fuel consumption. Producing 6,500 volt amperes (watts) of power, the EU6500is is the perfect solution to a variety of power needs. Due to its large power output, exceptional fuel efficiency, clean power output and super quiet operation, it is perfectly suited to provide crucial home back-up power during a blackout or other power emergency. The EU6500is is equally at home on a worksite, campsite or for RV camping and tailgating due to its excellent portability and compact design.
Limited Edition Repsol Replica Blade CBR1000RR
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March 1, 2007 Nicky Hayden's 2006 MotoGP Championship has prompted Honda to announce a limited edition Repsol replica Fireblade CBR1000RR which will be released into European and American markets later this month. It’s the second Repsol Replica Fireblade, the first coming in 2005 to commemorate a decade of Repsol sponsorship. Repsol began sponsoring the Honda MotoGP Team in 1995 when Michael Doohan won his second of five consecutive World GP 500 titles. Since then the team has won seven of the last eleven World Championship crowns including last year's Constructor, Team and Rider's Championship. The CBR1000RR features a host of race-developed technological innovations including the PGM-DSFI dual sequential fuel injection system, the Mass-Centralised Chassis Configuration, the Gravity Die-Cast Aluminium Frame, the Unit-Pro-Arm Swingarm, Radial-Mount Front Brake Callipers and the Electronic Steering Damper. Though it’s nowhere near an exact replica of the racing machines ridden by Nicky Hayden and Dani Pedrosa, the new Repsol Honda Fireblade certainly looks authentic.
HONDA unveils RC212V – 2007 MotoGP machine
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December 7, 2006 Having wrestled the World MotoGP Riders and Manufacturers Championships away from Valentino Rossi and Yamaha, Honda’s next big challenge is to keep them and next year with the rules changing to an 800cc limit, suddenly everything is up for grabs again and in post-season testing of the new 800 machines Honda, Yamaha, Ducati and Suzuki have all shown they will have competitive machinery next year . We’ve already done a complete technical rundown (with pics) of the RC211V 1000cc MotoGP bike which Honda is leaving behind – herewith is the official Honda unveiling of its 800cc, V4 replacement with a stunning all-new chassis built with mass centralization and ultimate handling in mind. Welcome to the future…
Honda Accord Coupe Concept for NAIS
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December 6, 2006 Honda will be debuting a bold new look for the next-generation Honda Accord Coupe at the January 2007 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit. The Accord Coupe Concept will convey exterior styling cues and design features that provide a first look at the direction the next-generation Accord will take and the company promises to set a new benchmark for Accord and for the segment.
Honda Soltec established to sell Thin Film Solar Cells
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December 4, 2006 Honda is getting into the solar cell business following an announcement on Friday that it plans to establish a wholly-owned subsidiary, Honda Soltec Co., Ltd., which will produce and sell the next-generation thin film solar cell independently developed by Honda. The new company will lead Honda to make a full-scale entry into the solar cell business.
Compact Honda Step Bus Concept - man maximum, machine minimum philosophy
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November 30, 2006 Our automobiles reflect who we are, and the Honda Step Bus Concept is designed specifically for high energy lifestyles, representing the ultimate expression of Honda packaging prowess with a mid-engine design and a fully maximized and quickly adaptable interior. The highly configurable, high-tech interior provides ultimate urban utility from the outside in. Sliding front doors with a space efficient design let people enter and exit in tight spaces. Although micro in exterior size, the cavernous interior can harbor large amounts of band equipment, sports gear and other bulky items.
Honda REMIX Concept mixes sports car attitude with everyday functionality
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November 30, 2006 The Honda REMIX small sport concept vehicle made its world debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show yesterday. The REMIX explores the shape and design of a two-seat sports car focused on agile and fun-to-drive performance that can also provide exceptional practicality as a daily driver. Sports car in shape and design, the low-slung REMIX features a wrap-around canopy that adds a fighter jet-feel to the driving experience. The aluminium-color exterior accentuates every line and curve in the geometric, yet fluid styling. Capable of delivering more than just driving performance, the rear storage area supplies generous cargo room.
One Hundred Years - happy birthday to Soichiro Honda
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November 17, 2006 We regularly note significant historical milestones and today is the 100th anniversary of the birth of a significant technological achiever. Soichiro Honda, the founder of the Honda Motor Company was born this day, November 17, 1906. The son of a blacksmith and a weaver, Soichiro was fascinated by machines and how they worked. One of his earliest memories was being enthralled by the first motor car he had ever seen. He later said: “As the car rolled through our small village I turned and chased after that car for all I was worth.” The young Soichiro may not have been able to catch the car, but it signalled the chasing of his dream: to build his own cars and motorcycles and win world championships with them. Without formal education, Honda forged an empire encompassing road cars, All-Terrain Vehicles, engines, generators, outboard motors, personal watercraft, water pumps, scooters, snowblowers, robots and more recently jet aircraft.
Honda’s 500bhp Element-D (for Drifting)
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November 1, 2006 The Honda Element-D ("D" for drifting) racecar shows what can happen when enthusiastic Honda associates raid the company parts bin. It's not all that long ago that racecar meant something with low frontal area and aerodynamic efficiency, but in the new sport of drifting, being as aerodynamic as a brick is an advantage. Built for the racing sport of drifting, the Honda Element-D racecar replaces the stock 4-cylinder/Real Time 4WD drivetrain with a custom-designed and longitudinally-mounted 3.2-liter Honda V6 and rear-wheel-drive. Producing 500-horsepower, the lightweight twin-turbocharged powerhouse is guaranteed to light up the rear tires and accelerate sideways at full opposite lock. Associates from Honda R&D Americas in Ohio plan to campaign the Element-D in the 2007 Formula Drift Series.
US$3.65 million HondaJet sales begin for 2010 deliveries
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October 18, 2006 Honda Aircraft Company today began sales of HondaJet with the standard configuration selling for US$3.65 million with first deliveries in 2010. Carrying over the company’s automotive brand values, the HondaJet will be the fastest and most fuel efficient aircraft in its class with a 420 knot cruise speed, a range of 1180 nautical miles, and a 30-35 percent better fuel efficiency at cruise speed versus other jets of comparable performance. HondaJet’s cabin is the clincher as it sets a new standard for interior space and comfort being longer than even larger ‘light jet’ offerings with space for a fully-private lavatory and a 57-cubic foot aft cargo hold.
Honda wins MotoGP Constructors World Championship and reveals the secrets of its RC211V
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October 3, 2006 With five riders on three different brands of machinery still capable of winning the World MotoGP riders championship, it has gone almost unnoticed that Honda has taken its 17th Constructors’ Championship and eclipsed MV Agusta’s 16 Constructors’ titles. With 203 premier class victories since it first competed at the highest level in 1966, Honda now dominates the history of MotoGP by almost any measure. Astoundingly, at the Japanese GP, it called a press conference and in an unprecedented move it revealed the complete engine internals of its RC211V, the bike which had won 47 (58.75%) of the 80 races since the 1000cc formula was introduced. Our image gallery for this story contains imagery of many of the famous riders who have tasted World Championship success with Honda such as Hailwood, Spencer, Rossi, Lawson, Gardner and Doohan, plus the bikes they rode from the RC181 of the sixties to the NSR500 V4 and high res imagery of the internals of the RC211V – clearly Honda feels that the internals of the V4 800 of next year with its hydraulically operated valves are so far removed from the V5 1000 that it has nothing to fear. But if you’re a lover of fine engineering, feast your eyeballs on the Honda’s internals.
Honda shows next-generation diesel engine
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October 2, 2006 Honda has developed a next-generation diesel engine that reduces exhaust gas emissions to a level equal to a petrol engine and expects to have the engine available in its U.S. market cars within three years. The engine employs an NOx catalytic converter that enables a reduction in NOx emissions sufficient to meet stringent U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Tier II Bin 5 emission requirements. This catalytic converter uses the reductive reaction of ammonia generated within the catalytic converter to “detoxify” nitrogen oxide (NOx) by turning it into harmless nitrogen (N2).
